Question 1:
What is sustainable development? Identify and briefly explain its core principles.

• Hint: Provide the definition of sustainable development, including the intergenerational perspective and mention at least one implicit limitation of the definition; briefly discuss the three main dimensions—environmental, social (equity), and economic—also known as the three Es; explain the necessity of balancing these dimensions. Compare sustainable development and sustainability and/or distinguish between the perspectives of neoclassical economists and ecological economists on sustainability.

Question 2:
Why is the circular economy considered a necessary approach for sustainable development? Briefly state and explain the core principles of this economic model.

• Hint: Provide a definition or your understanding of the circular economy; explain why it is important or highlight the limitations of the traditional linear economic model; present the basic principles of the circular economy; you may include specific examples to illustrate your points.

Question 3:

What is climate change? Briefly identify and explain some major human-induced causes of this phenomenon.

• Hint: Provide a definition or your understanding of climate change; explain the role of the greenhouse effect; discuss causes such as CO₂ emissions, deforestation, negative externalities from production and consumption activities; and the economic impacts and damages caused by climate change.

Question 4: 

Briefly identify and explain some common economic instruments used to mitigate climate change. 

• Hint: Present different approaches to controlling greenhouse gas emissions; explain why economic instruments are necessary; list and briefly explain some tools such as carbon taxes, carbon markets, subsidies for clean technologies, extended producer responsibility (EPR), etc.

Question 5: 

Which Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) is directly related to food security? Explain why sustainable agriculture can contribute to ensuring food security and protecting the environment.

• Hint: Provide a definition or basic understanding of food security; briefly mention the 3S elements: food supply, food safety, and food sovereignty; identify the SDG directly related to food security; analyze the link between sustainable agriculture and a stable, long-term food supply; clarify the role of sustainable agriculture in protecting land and water resources, and in reducing greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change.

Question 6: 

Select 3 out of the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) that you consider most important, and explain why.

• Hint: State the name and number of each selected SDG; briefly explain your reasons based on global impact, urgency, or interconnection with other goals; examples may be included.

Question 7: 

Briefly explain the interdependent relationship between economic development and environmental protection in the context of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

• Hint: Acknowledge that this is a complex and multidimensional relationship, involving both positive and negative interactions; present the two-way linkage between an economic SDG and an environmental SDG—for example, SDG 8 and SDG 13 ; discuss some solutions to encourage positive relationships and avoid negative relationships among SDGs .

Question 8:

In your opinion, what is the biggest challenge to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030? Briefly explain why you chose this challenge.

• Hint: You may consider key challenges such as: insufficient financial resources and investment for sustainable development; lack of coordination and participation among stakeholders (governments, businesses, civil society, etc.); the growing impact of climate change; armed conflicts and political or social instability; trade wars and increasing protectionism; institutional weaknesses or limited access to technology in developing countries. You may also support your answer with real-world examples or case studies.

Question 9:

Do you think it is realistic to decouple economic growth from environmental degradation? Provide examples and suggest some appropriate solutions for a developing country like Vietnam.

• Hint: Explain the concept of “decoupling” – the separation of economic growth from environmental degradation; identify the relevant Sustainable Development Goals (e.g., SDG 8 and SDG 12 ); mention countries or regions that have successfully reduced emissions or environmental harm while maintaining economic growth; analyze the challenges and possible strategies for Vietnam, such as technological innovation, circular economy development, and environmental policy reform; conclude with your opinion on the feasibility of this approach in practice.

Question 10:

Why is green growth considered an important development model that many countries are pursuing in their efforts toward sustainable development?

• Hint: Discuss the limitations of the traditional linear economic model, especially the contradiction between economic growth and environmental protection; define and clarify the concept of green growth; analyze the roles of governments and businesses in promoting green growth; provide examples of countries that have successfully implemented this model; and present your own opinion. You may also briefly compare and distinguish between green growth, inclusive growth, and sustainable growth.

Question 11:

What should humans do to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

• Hint: While development today has brought many significant achievements in terms of economy, technology, and living standards, it has also created pressing challenges such as resource depletion, environmental pollution, and social inequality. Present your definition or understanding of sustainable development; discuss the need to balance the three main pillars: economy, society, and environment; propose solutions such as efficient resource use, promotion of green technology, public awareness through education, and effective public policy; provide specific examples; and conclude with your personal viewpoint on the role of individuals in the journey toward sustainable development.

Question 12:

After completing this course, what key personal goals have you set to contribute to sustainable development, especially in the context of increasing global emphasis on sustainability?

• Hint: Reflect on your experience with the course and highlight any topics or concepts that left a strong impression on you. Discuss your awareness of the challenges and expectations for individual sustainable development in today’s fast-changing and globalized world. Identify several concrete and practical goals (e.g., related to education, career, consumption habits, environmental protection, social equity, etc.) that you aim to pursue. Explain the rationale behind choosing these goals. Conclude with your personal view on the role each individual can play in advancing sustainable development.

Question 13:

How might the United States’ new tariff policy on certain imported goods from developing countries, including Vietnam, affect the achievement of at least two Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Vietnam? Analyze the specific impacts and propose appropriate response solutions.

• Hint: Identify and explain the potential impact on at least two specific SDGs, such as SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals); briefly analyze the direct and indirect effects of the tariff increase on exports, employment, supply chains, investment, and international cooperation; propose feasible solutions such as diversifying export markets, increasing the added value of products, enhancing bilateral trade negotiations, supporting green transformation and technological innovation among businesses; and conclude with your personal viewpoint on the roles of government, businesses, and individuals in responding to global challenges and ensuring sustainable development progress.

Question 14: 

What is the significance of the policy to waive tuition fees for public school students in Vietnam, starting from 2025, in relation to the implementation of at least three Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)? Which SDG does this policy directly impact, and which other SDGs are indirectly affected? Present your viewpoint, briefly analyze the effects, and explain the overall significance of this policy for comprehensive sustainable development.

• Hint: Identify the SDG that is directly impacted (e.g., SDG 4 – Quality Education), as well as those indirectly influenced, such as SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities); briefly analyze the positive effects of the policy, such as expanding access to education, reducing financial burdens for low-income families, promoting social equity, and strengthening long-term human capital; clearly state the overall significance of this policy in realizing inclusive and equitable sustainable development; conclude with your personal opinion on the role of free education in national development strategies.

Question 15:

How can the ecological lifestyle choices of today’s youth contribute to the achievement of specific Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)? Present your viewpoint and analyze the role of young people in promoting sustainable development through environmentally responsible living choices.

• Hint: Provide concrete examples of common ecological lifestyle practices among youth (e.g., reducing single-use plastics, using public transportation, adopting a plant-based diet, sustainable fashion, etc.); analyze the connection with at least three specific SDGs, such as SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 15 (Life on Land); explain why personal habit changes can generate long-term positive impacts on both society and the environment; and conclude with your personal view on the significance of youth leadership in shaping a more sustainable future.